What Your Desk Says About You

Look at your desk. Is it scattered with unread papers? Adorned with family photos? Do you have toys that help you think? The way you organize and decorate your desk reveals a surprising amount of information about who you are. Sam Gosling, psychologist and professor at the University of Texas at Austin says there are a few easy things that can reveal somebody’s personality.

1. An organized desk says you’re dependable and timely.

People with organized desks tend to be reliable, task oriented people who plan well and get their work done on time. "When I go into a space, I look for a calendar first," Gosling says, since an up-to-date, used desk calendar is another sign of an organized person.

Having a messy desk isn't a bad thing (creative people often do), but others may judge you incorrectly. "When people see a messy office, they may think that the person is disagreeable, which is not necessarily true," Gosling says. "My hunch is that the mess is unpleasant [to look at], so they assume the person is inconsiderate."

2. Uncommon objects say you’re creative and open to new experiences.

People with original art or a diverse array of objects tend to be open; they embrace new ideas or experiences and are often very creative. Innovative companies, such as advertising agencies or tech startups, tend to attract creative people and encourage their employees to showcase their personalities.

3. Inspirational posters and messages say you're neurotic.

People who pepper their desks with inspirational statements are typically a bit more neurotic. If you have inspirational posters up, don't worry that they're sending the wrong message. Neurotic people are often highly successful in the workplace and the sayings they choose to display communicate their values to others.

4. An inviting space says you're extroverted.

People with especially inviting offices - including an open door, comfortable chairs, or a candy jar - tend to be very social. By creating a welcoming space, they show others that they’re approachable, and often get many more visitors than the introverts.

Sociability can pave the way for promotions and a new opportunity, so introverts may help their careers by adding a few inviting touches. "People can learn to exercise that side," Gosling says.

How to survive in a new job

How can you make sure that your first few weeks in a new job won’t be your last?

Let’s start with your clothes. Plan what you are going to wear in advance. Being smart tells people that you are organized and reliable. Have a good breakfast and don’t forget to work out how to get to your new workplace before you leave!

Walk into the company with a smile and make eye contact. It can be difficult to do this when you are nervous but it will make you look more approachable. Be polite and friendly to everyone. Don’t forget to find out where things are, such as the water cooler and the toilets.

Introduce yourself to your new colleagues. It’s useful to learn names as soon as possible. It’s good to have a positive attitude, too. You need to watch the things you say and do as they will be remembered.

You don’t have to be perfect in your first weeks – everyone has to learn. So don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s better to ask for help than to do a job wrong! Listening is also important. Use a notebook and make notes so you don’t have to keep asking the same thing. Find out from your boss your responsibilities, specific projects and deadlines.

You should watch how your colleagues behave. Every company has its own culture. It may be formal or informal. For example, you may be allowed to make personal calls and surf the net, or you may not. Ideally in the first weeks you should arrive early, and leave not earlier than the majority of your colleagues. Starting late and finishing early never makes a good impression. Stay out of office politics and avoid criticizing your boss or colleagues to other people. But take advantage of after hours activities to get to know your co-workers. And join them for lunch if they invite you!